Not many things are as frustrating as suddenly losing engine power when trying to accelerate. Whether you’re attempting to merge onto the highway or needing to make a crucial pass, an abrupt loss of acceleration can be completely jarring, not to mention dangerous. While it may seem like your engine is giving out at the … Read more
If your car is suddenly getting terrible gas mileage and leaving you wondering “why is my car using so much gas all of a sudden?”. You’re not alone and today’s gas prices make it a bigger issue than it once may have been. There are a number of common causes behind plummeting fuel efficiency. Fortunately, … Read more
Engine oil is circulated through your engine via an oil pump. Your oil pressure is higher when your oil is thicker or there is an obstruction in an oil passage. There are also times when high oil pressure is normal and no cause for concern. Here’s how you can know the difference. Related: Low Oil … Read more
Driving uphill reveals weaknesses that are hidden on level ground. Gravity works against you, forcing the engine to work harder. Accelerating now tests every component and if one part isn’t functioning like it should, your vehicle may suddenly struggle, hesitate, or even stall when going uphill. If you car seems like it’s losing power while … Read more
It’s a good idea to check your oil about every time you fill up the fuel tank. But what do you do with that information? What does dirty oil on the dipstick look like, and when is it time for an oil change? You can’t always tell how old your oil is just by looking … Read more
That squealing under the hood when you start your car in the morning is no harmless noise. It’s an audible clue that your serpentine belt needs attention. This vital belt powers vital accessories like the alternator, AC compressor, and power steering pump by linking them to the crankshaft’s rotation. When this drive belt starts glazing, … Read more
Do you have a noisy, rattly engine? Perhaps you hear a rhythmic ticking noise coming from under the hood. No matter the type of unusual sound, one’s thoughts automatically begin to turn toward impending engine failure and the headache such an issue might cause. Sometimes ticking is normal and expected. Sometimes a tick needs to … Read more
All-wheel drive (AWD) systems send power to all four wheels. AWD is found on many modern vehicles, especially in areas that tend to experience poor weather conditions in the winter. If there is a problem with the AWD system, you will often see a message that says “Check AWD System” or something similar. Not sure … Read more
As vehicles age, individual components within an engine wear down a little bit every time it’s being driven. When fluid is routed through hoses and lines, various types of gaskets are responsible for keeping things leak free. Unfortunately, these gaskets deteriorate and can eventually fail. One of the more common reasons for an engine oil … Read more
Thermostats are one of those auto parts that is fairly inexpensive and straightforward to replace yourself. Although the part is inexpensive, the labor rate at a mechanic can drive up the cost of replacement. It’s always a good idea to search online for a how-to guide for your exact vehicle. If you can get your … Read more